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Winter Weather

Even though Jacksonville is in Florida, we can still experience dangerous winter weather. Extreme cold, dense fog, and even ice and snow storms are possible during the winter months. Dangers from these weather conditions include unsafe roads, cold-related illness, fires, and power outages. 
Winter Weather Alerts
When there's a winter weather risk in Jacksonville, the National Weather Service will issue alerts and warnings.
Freeze Watch
 
A Freeze Watch is issued when there is a potential for significant, widespread freezing temperatures within the next 24-36 hours.
Freeze Warning
 
A Freeze Warning is issued when significant, widespread freezing temperatures are expected.
Frost Advisory
 
A Frost Advisory is issued when the minimum temperature is forecast to be 33 to 36 degrees on clear and calm nights during the growing season.
Dense Fog Advisory
 
A Dense Fog Advisory is issued when widespread fog is expected to reduce visibilities to 1/4 mile or less over a large area for an extended period of time (2 or more hours).
Winter Storm Watch
 
A Winter Storm Watch is issued when there is the potential for significant and hazardous winter weather within 48 hours. It does not mean that significant and hazardous winter weather will occur, it only means it is possible.
Winter Storm Warning
 
A Winter Storm Warning is issued when a significant combination of hazardous winter weather is occurring or imminent.
During Extreme Cold
Stay Warm:
  • Stay inside in heat during extreme cold. 
  • If you have to go outside, wear layers, a hat & gloves and carry a cell phone.
  • Check on neighbors, children, the elderly & chronically ill to make sure they are okay.
  • Bring pets inside.
Know the Signs of Cold-Relted Illness:
Seek medical attention immediately of you or someone you know experiences the following symptoms:
  • Shivering or fumbling hands
  • Exhaustion or drowsiness
  • Confusion or memory loss
  • Slurred speech
  • Bright red, cold skin or very low energy in infants
Practice Fire Safety and Prepare Your Home:


  5 P's of Cold Weather Preparedness
During Dense Fog, An Ice Storm, Or Snow
Stay Informed and Connected:
  • Sign up for ALERTJAX notifications and follow JaxReady on Twitter, Facebook, and Nextdoor.
  • Check local news for detailed information and follow instructions carefully
  • Know how to contact your loved ones, at work, at school, and at home.
  • Follow the instructions of emergency officials. 
Be Careful on the Road: 
  • Listen to emergency personnel and do what they say.
  • Stay off the road as much as possible.
  • If you must drive, use extreme caution during icy or foggy conditions. 
  • Take extra care on elevated roads, like bridges.
Prepare for Power Outages: 
  • Keep generators outside and at least 20 feet away from your home.
  • Stay warm: wear warm clothes and go to a public place like a library, recreation center, or mall for temporary relief.
  • Use flashlights, not candles for light.
  • Preserve cell phone battery life. Texting saves battery life compared to calling.